The House of Representatives today took over the functions of the Kogi State House of Assembly over the crisis that engulfed the assembly in the last one month.In taking the decision at plenary, the House said its action was in line with the provision of Section 11 (4) of the 1999 Constitution, which says the National Assembly could take over the functions of any state assembly that is enmeshed in crisis.
Earlier reports have it that five members of the Kogi assembly purportedly impeached the speaker Momoh Jimoh Lawal and elected Umar Imam as new speaker.
Consequently, the House passed a resolution a fortnight ago setting up an ad-hoc committee to visit the state assembly with a view to resolving the matter. Although the five lawmakers shunned the Reps panel, the committee submitted its report last week, which was considered at plenary today.
The House also urged the Inspector General of Police Solomon Arase to immediately seal off the Kogi assembly since the House has taken over its functions.
The lower chamber's action will take effect as soon as the Senate concurs.
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